New California Laws for 2024: A Comprehensive Guide to Changes in Employment, Housing, Transportation, Public Health, Public Safety, Consumer Rights, and State Symbols
California lawmakers have been busy in 2023, sending hundreds of bills to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk for approval. With an October deadline looming, many of these bills have been signed into law, bringing significant changes to the state in 2024.
One area that will see major changes is employment law. The state minimum wage will increase to $16 per hour on Jan. 1, up from $15.50. Additionally, healthcare workers will see a minimum wage increase to $23 starting June 1. Paid sick leave, reproductive leave, and work-from-home accommodations are also among the new laws coming into effect in 2024.
In the housing sector, security deposits will be capped at one month’s rent, rent-controlled tenants with disabilities will have the right to relocate to accessible units, and the use of credit history in rental applications will be prohibited.
On the transportation and traffic front, new laws will require bicyclists to obey bicycle signals, establish a Speed Safety System Pilot Program in select cities, and expand the definition of shared mobility devices.
In the public health realm, new laws will address conservatorship for gravely disabled persons, electronic medical records, and support for LGBTQ youth in foster care.
Public safety laws will also see changes, including restrictions on concealed carry in public spaces, increased penalties for fentanyl distribution, and harsher penalties for child sex trafficking.
Consumer laws will also see changes, such as fees for campsite reservation cancellations and requirements for gender-neutral toy sections in department stores.
Finally, California will have a new state symbol in 2024 – the California golden chanterelle will be officially recognized as the state mushroom.
With so many new laws coming into effect in 2024, Californians can expect to see significant changes in various aspects of their lives. Stay tuned for more updates on these new laws as they take effect.